The First Presidency has announced a short-term closure of the Houston Texas Temple. The temple has not been in use since Hurricane Harvey dropped a record rainfall of 52 inches in Houston in late August. The ensuing rains breached the temple beginning Aug. 26 and flooded the temple annex building, the temple basement and the main floor, with water rising to more than a foot. The second floor was not flooded or damaged.
In a letter to Church leaders, the First Presidency states, “The Houston Texas Temple is now closed to complete necessary renovations and repairs.” The letter continues: “It is anticipated the renovation project will be completed in the spring of 2018. Following the completion of renovations, a simple rededication of the temple will be held.”
A “simple rededication” will include a private dedication session with no public open house or cultural celebration.
Plans to build the temple were announced Sept. 30, 1997. Ground was broken on June 13, 1998, by President Gordon B. Hinckley. It was dedicated Aug. 26, 2000. The temple is located in northwest Houston in the community of Klein.
